On the Job: When to Report

This week's On the Job is an addendum to last week's entry.

When criticism goes too far or feels too personal, it is time to consider your options. If you feel personally attacked, or overly criticized, consider the following options:

• Speak with your criticizer. Sometimes harsh criticism is a case of misunderstanding or confusion. If you feel comfortable, speak calmly with your colleague and try to better understand the situation. It may be that sitting down and having a conversation resolves the problem. At the very least, you will have a better understanding of why you are being criticized. Never confront your coworker or take an angry/accusatory stance - that will only exacerbate the problem.
• Speak with your supervisor. If the criticism has become a personal attack, is unwarranted, or feels overly harsh, speak with your supervisor. They are there to help mitigate workplace conflict. Sometimes it takes "a boss" to help calm a criticizer's ire.
• Speak with HR. If the criticism has not stopped, becomes harassing, or involves your superior, it is time to visit HR. Employees in human resources are trained to evaluate workplace conflict. Sometimes it takes a third party to mediate a tense situation. 
• Start Looking Elsewhere. Unfortunately, some organizations have an environment of criticism. If you are not happy in this organization, look elsewhere. There are other offices that are better suited for your work style. Sometimes, it's not worth sticking with a job if it makes you miserable.

Criticism is often a healthy motivator in the workplace. But it can go too far. When you feel that criticism has gone past the acceptable boundaries, take action. If you let unwarranted criticism go on too long, it will affect your performance and happiness. Many times, simply acknowledging that criticism has gone too far can help reduce the problem. Speak up sooner rather than later, or you risk becoming a punching bag.